Newcastle United have finally established a new boardroom with the aim of taking the club to new heights. David Hopkinson was appointed CEO, followed immediately by Ross Wilson as sporting director, and the Magpies continue to make rapid progress under their Saudi-backed ownership. Wilson’s arrival will inject new dynamism into the club’s transfer strategy.
The former Nottingham Forest and Rangers player has already held high-level talks with head coach Eddie Howe. He observed training this week, but his responsibilities will also extend into future transfer windows. This comes after United’s head coach has had to take on more responsibility himself following Paul Mitchell’s departure in the summer. After selling Alexander Isak to Liverpool for £130m, the Thun have funds available to invest in the upcoming transfer window and there is still room to further strengthen the squad.
Express Sport reports that Wilson is considering signing five players over the next two periods…
Coby Mainu
The young midfielder looks set to leave Manchester United either in January or during the summer transfer window. The Red Devils are reportedly interested in signing Crystal Palace’s Adam Wharton for £60m.
Mainu was on the verge of leaving Old Trafford last summer, but decided to stay and fight for his place. However, he has not been able to play as much as expected under coach Ruben Amorim, and a move could be on the cards.
Newcastle could be in the market for another midfielder and Mainu is young, English and has experience in the Premier League, making him a perfect fit in their reinforcement strategy. If they decide to pursue him, they won’t be the only ones interested in the England international.
Elliot Anderson
Many will be excited to see the local player return to St James’ Park after Newcastle were forced to sell to Forest in 2024 to meet PSR requirements. Wilson played a part in that deal and bringing Anderson back to Tyneside would instantly win the hearts of the club’s fans.
However, Man City and Chelsea have also shown an interest in the England midfielder and are rumored to be able to make a £75m bid for the Whitley Bay-born star.
mark gehi
Newcastle have not yet completely ruled out signing England defender Gehi from Crystal Palace, whose contract expires next summer.
Liverpool thought they had secured a deal on deadline day, but Palace withdrew. Arne Slott is likely to make another offer for the 25-year-old, but several other clubs are also likely to be considered.
Guehi has a number of options when it comes to choosing his next club, but Newcastle will certainly be in contention.
josh king
The Magpies are keeping an eye on Fulham’s rising star, who has had an excellent season under manager Marco Silva at Craven Cottage.
Manchester United are also monitoring the versatile 18-year-old and his ability to play in multiple positions will no doubt be attractive to Eddie Howe and his team.
Igor Thiago
Thiago has been on the radar of chief scout Steve Nixon for some time. He has overcome injury problems and is finally showing his potential at Brentford.
At just 24 years old, the Brazilian is a player Newcastle will be keeping an eye on this season, with his speed and height being key attributes. United have already brought in Nick Waltemaide and Yoan Wissa this year, but they could still make another move to strengthen their attacking options.
